Ingredients:

  • 4 (6 oz) tilapia fillets
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top to allow heat to circulate under the fish.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
  3. In a separate shallow dish, combine the panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
  4. Brush a thin, even layer of the mayonnaise mixture over the top of each tilapia fillet.
  5. Press the coated side of each fillet firmly into the panko mixture, pushing the crumbs down to create a thick, uniform layer.
  6. Place the fillets on the prepared wire rack and bake for 15–20 minutes until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and the crust is deep golden-brown.